134 years ago, the passion and dedication of volunteers laid the foundation for the RSPB. As someone who has been fortunate enough to volunteer with the RSPB, I can attest to the vital role volunteers play in keeping our organisation thriving. Across the whole of the RSPB, there are more than 12,000 fantastic volunteers and between them, they contribute almost 1 million hours every year!
Every day, our volunteers support and inspire more and more people to get involved in something they believe in. Their unwavering commitment serves as an inspiration for others to care for nature just as deeply as the RSPB does.
While being paid to safeguard nature is meaningful, volunteering goes above and beyond. Our volunteers make a lasting impact, forging genuine connections that inspire others to lend their support. Volunteers allow us to have diverse conversations, gain fresh perspectives, and reach a wider range of people. They are indispensable for practical conservation efforts, lending a helping hand where it matters most. Indeed, volunteering with the RSPB comes in many shapes and forms. Wildlife expert or not, you can find a role that is tailored to your skills, interests and circumstances and get the most out of your experience with us!
And what about Northern Ireland? There are over 400 RSPB NI volunteers working passionately across 36 sites all over the country. From safeguarding species on our priority sites to protecting Red Kites in the breath-taking Mournes, our volunteers engage in a wide array of activities. They participate in fundraising, campaigning, work on our nature reserves, meet and welcome visitors to our Visitor Centres, coordinate and support RSPB projects, campaign for nature and lead local groups in our communities.
Let us celebrate the incredible work of our volunteers during this year’s Volunteer Week!
Keep an eye out for #VolunteerWeek2023 on our platforms and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter to learn more about volunteering with RSPB NI.
Remember, Giving Nature A Home begins with each and every one of us. Together, we can collectively create a brighter and more sustainable future for our precious wildlife and their habitats.
Have a look at our latest volunteering opportunities and find out what suits YOU best:
Become a Youth Campaigner
As an RSPB NI Youth Campaigner, you will be at the forefront of nature positive change. Our planet is facing a nature and climate emergency, but we strongly believe we can make a difference. Are you a passionate youth campaigner, aged between teens and twenties? If so, come join our team.
From rallying and speaking at the Global Day of Action, to attending campaigns training at nature reserves, getting involved in RSPB conservation work, making TV and media appearances, meeting and influencing politicians and recently demonstrating outside Stormont, our Youth Campaigners get involved in so much varied work - so why not join them!
Find out more: https://bit.ly/3IEUOO8
Become a Residential volunteer on Rathlin Island
Embark on a truly unique volunteering experience on Rathlin Island and witness the largest seabird breeding colony in Northern Ireland home to puffins, razorbills, and much more. Become the welcoming and knowledgeable face of the RSPB to inspire, engage and motivate our visitors to support our work through donations and membership.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/3MVgp7B
Explore more volunteering opportunities here.